John Jacob

John Jacob, PhD

I am a postdoctoral fellow in the laboratory of Dr. William Hahn at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Broad Institute. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan, followed by a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from The Ohio State University.

My research focuses on the role of RNA expression states in cancer, which have significant implications for patient prognosis and treatment efficacy. Specifically, I am investigating two key areas: (1) the transcriptional and microenvironmental determinants that shape distinct cellular states within tumors, and (2) the functional dependencies associated with these states. Through these efforts, I aim to identify state-specific biomarkers and vulnerabilities that can be targeted to reduce tumor heterogeneity—a major challenge in cancer treatment.

By dissecting these determinants and dependencies, my goal is to uncover novel therapeutic opportunities that can be integrated into existing treatment strategies, ultimately enhancing their efficacy and improving patient outcomes. The identification and targeting of state-specific vulnerabilities hold great potential in minimizing treatment resistance and overcoming the adaptive capacity of tumors, providing a more refined and personalized approach to cancer therapy.